Sen. Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) was reelected as President Pro Tempore of the Pennsylvania Senate as the chamber began its 2025-26 legislative session on Tuesday.

Republicans hold a 27-22 edge in the upper chamber, following the resignation of Sen. Ryan Aument (R-Lancaster) who stepped down to take the position of state director for U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick.

Ward, who will serve in the role for a second legislative session, accepted the gavel from Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, president of the Senate, and spoke to the assembled members and guests on “Swearing-In Day” at the Capitol.

“As we kick-off the new two-year legislative session, the Senate Republican Caucus will continue to remain accountable to the people of Pennsylvania by ensuring good, effective, and fiscally responsible legislation is passed,” Ward said. “While we have significant and monumental issues before us, our focus will remain on helping families succeed by cutting bureaucratic red tape, growing our energy portfolio, addressing challenges with our most vulnerable through hospital and nursing home assistance, and reshaping our education system to position all students for success.”